Colors of Amersfoort - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Amersfoort is an honorable ancient city in the Netherlands. It perfectly preserved historical monuments of medieval architecture, so every tourist will be able to enjoy its rich history. Officially the status of the city and its current name the city received in the 13th century. Local people are proud of their history and call it the "city of people" created by people. The city of Amersfoort with a population of 128 thousand people is the second largest city in the province of Utrecht - the central part of the Netherlands. It is also ranked 17th in importance in the Netherlands as a whole. The municipality of the city includes the settlements of Hoogland, Hooglanderveen, and Stoutenburg-Noord. Amersfoort is a very diverse, distinct and prosperous city with modern architecture and a thriving economy.

The predominant color of the city is blue, which symbolizes water, and green - the color of forests and parks that the city abounds in. From an economic point of view, Amersfoort is one of the most vital cities in the Netherlands with huge manpower and high average income. It is on the third place in terms of net income per capita among 25 cities with a population of more than 100 thousand people. The city will amaze any tourist, even the most refined gourmet with its variety of gastronomic institutions. More than 250 pubs and restaurants offering excellent beer, as well as French, Japanese, Mexican and Flemish cuisine for every taste, from the most affordable to the most luxurious.

During its years, Amersfoort has gained a lot of interesting "nicknames" from tourists, who are delighted with its cozy and picturesque mood. Locals take care of the environment and prefer using the two-wheeled vehicles to cars. For this occasion, the management of the city provided its residents with all the necessary biking facilities. So not surprisingly, that the first nickname of Amersfoort is the "city of bicycles". You will be amazed by a large number of two-wheelers on the streets. It is worth noting that the bicycle is popular with people of all ages here. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another interesting name Amersfoort - "city of youth" or "city of children." The thing is that about 20% of the local residents consist of kids under the age of fourteen. The third nickname of Amersfoort- "the city of boulders", which is associated with an interesting history occurred in the 17th century. Do not hesitate and take a thematic excursion, where the guide will enlight you about events taken in 1661. Young travelers usually refer to Amersfoort as a "city of festivals". Local youth, as well as tourists from nearby cities, are attracted by a variety of holidays and concerts held here throughout the year.

One of the most unusual events of Amersfoort takes place on May annually - the holiday called "Nudist Day". The name of the holiday speaks for itself! The main venue for this event can be found in the famous Sportfondsenbad pool. Due to its rich ancient architecture and history, the city of Amersfoort is one of the venues for the famous national holiday - Open Monumentendag. This is the Open Day in the local historical buildings of Holland. Annually in the second weekend of September, ancient buildings, like houses on canals, lofts, churches, factory buildings open their doors to visitors. And many also prepare an interesting program for its guests. The entrance to the buildings is free. So if you are planning a trip to Amersfoort in September, be sure the witness this event due to the variety of interesting entertainment program.

Due to a great number of kids in Amersfoort, it is not surprising that the most anticipated holidays start in November. Sinterklaas, the predecessor of Santa Claus, comes to the city by ship in the middle of November and presents gifts to those children who behaved well. After St. Nicholas Day, everyone is waiting for Christmas. Local Christmas cannot be compared to the American one. Amersfoort treats Christmas in a special way. There are no excessive decorations on the streets, only modest accents, reminding that Christmas is still coming soon. During this magical holiday, you will be able to stroll around festive streets and purchase various local goods on the small fairs. On December 26, locals celebrate the Day of St. Stephen. The Dutch go to visit various events, restaurants, and theaters. If you decide to combine shopping and travel to Christmas Holland, do not forget to grab a couple of days before or after Christmas, when festive discounts prevail in the stores.